A proud Mexican American and native of Dallas, Ivan Puga grew up in the vibrant community of Pleasant Grove. For the past eight years, he has been shaping young minds and fostering creativity as an art teacher at South Garland High School. The Hispanic teacher’s journey in the arts began with a natural interest in painting and
drawing, but it was during his time in the architectural program at Skyline High School that his passion for art truly flourished.
Specializing in watercolor, oil, and mixed media, Puga has developed a distinctive style reflecting his personal experiences and cultural heritage. Although teaching was not his original career path, Puga “fell into” the profession and soon discovered that what started as a job had evolved into a calling.
Today, he is deeply committed to inspiring his students not only to see art as an elective but to understand its broader applications in their future careers and everyday lives. He aims to help students embrace their artistic identity and realize that creativity can be a valuable asset in any field they choose to pursue.
This year, Puga was honored as a featured artist at Epiphany Gallery in Downtown Garland during Hispanic Heritage Month. His exhibited work, a series of ten pieces portraying the indigenous people of Mexico, offers a modern perspective on cultural identity from this side of the Rio Grande. His artwork draws from the lens of the Pleasant Grove community and emphasizes a sense of connection to his Mexican roots while celebrating the unique Tejano experience.
In addition to this recognition, Puga’s work has been featured at various events across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including Día de los Muertos celebrations and Frida Kahlo Festivals. His upcoming exhibitions promise to continue exploring themes of cultural pride, identity, and resilience.
Puga is one of many impactful Hispanic educators in Garland ISD whose contributions shape both the academic and cultural environment of the district. Through his art, he hopes to inspire others to feel a sense of celebration, pride, and connection to their heritage. As an educator, his mission is to teach students how to not only excel in the classroom but also apply artistic principles to their broader life journeys, empowering them to think and create beyond the traditional confines of school.
Garland ISD is proud to be home to impactful educators like Puga, whose dedication to his craft and his students makes him truly #GISDUnmatched.
Information and photos provided by Garland ISD.